William Morris – A short History
The talents and many accomplishments of William Morris (1834 – 1896) defy easy summary. He was a remarkable designer of home furnishings, and he is generally acknowledged as the father of the Arts & Crafts movement in both Britain and America. His designs are still in production over 100 years after his death and they still influence people today.
William Morris was born into a well-off family on March 24, 1834, at Elm House, Walthamstow, England.
Water House, William Morris’ boyhood home which has housed the William Morris Gallery since 1950. Image courtesy of “Keep Our Museums Open” www.keepourmuseumsopen.org.uk
In September 1848 The Morris family moved to the Water House, in what is now Forest Road, Walthamstow, Essex. Since 1950 Water House has housed the William Morris Gallery.
Morris as a young man
In January 1853 Morris went to Exeter College, Oxford, to study theology. He met Edward Burne-Jones who became a life-long friend and design collaborator in many design projects.
The two of them, with another friend, traveled in 1855 to France visiting cathedrals and enjoying French life.
